Hanji Zoë became the 14th Commander of the Survey Corps, appointed by Erwin Smith before his demise. Previously the Fourth Squad leader, they specialized in Titan research and experimentation. Hanji's appearance featured medium-length dark brown hair, usually in a high ponytail with messy bangs, thick square-rimmed glasses secured by straps in combat, and oval-shaped glasses otherwise. They lost their left eye to Bertolt Hoover's explosive attack during the Battle of Shiganshina, thereafter wearing a fitted black eye patch. Hanji consistently wore the standard Survey Corps uniform: a button-up shirt beneath the green cloak on missions. Initially joining the Survey Corps consumed by hatred for Titans, Hanji's perspective transformed upon physical contact with one and discovering its unnaturally light weight, igniting an obsessive scientific drive. They displayed profound compassion for Titan test subjects, experiencing deep emotional distress and tears during painful experiments, suffering meltdowns when subjects died. Despite a typically energetic and eccentric manner, Hanji remained level-headed in crises, making rapid strategic decisions prioritizing comrade safety. A distinct shift occurred when angered or stressed, often signaled by pushing glasses onto their forehead, revealing a ruthless, manipulative side during interrogations, such as threatening Pastor Nick over Wall Titan secrets. The burden of leadership intensified displays of stress, anger, and exhaustion. Hanji spearheaded Titan research, securing authorization for the first capture expedition after discovering Ilse Langnar's notebook documenting a speaking Titan mentioning "Ymir's People." They conducted extensive experiments on Eren Yeager's Titan abilities, deducing his transformation trigger required a clear objective, proven when his Titan arm manifested to grasp a teaspoon. Hanji played pivotal tactical roles, designing specialized restraints for the Female Titan capture missions in Stohess District and the Forest of Giant Trees. During the latter, they fought to defend the captured Female Titan from incoming Titans after its summoning roar, later realizing the enemy survived consumption. As Commander, Hanji assumed responsibilities for expedition planning, regiment management, recruitment, and strategic oversight. They led humanity against escalating threats, including confrontations with the Beast Titan. Hanji's analytical prowess drove innovations in weaponry and tactics, significantly advancing Titan knowledge. Proficient with vertical maneuvering equipment, they demonstrated agile evasion and close combat skills honed through years of frontline service. Their leadership emphasized decisive action for humanity's survival, even involving morally complex choices. No birthplace, family, or confirmed age is known, with estimates placing Hanji in their late twenties to early thirties. The character's gender identity remains intentionally unspecified, reflected in narrative and promotional materials avoiding gendered pronouns. Hanji's name spelling varies between "Hange" and "Hanji" in official sources.